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on Wednesday introduced an US$899 configuration of the 17-inch iMac designed specifically for education customers.
The 17-inch iMac for education features a 1.83 GHz Intel (Nasdaq: INTC) Core Duo processor, a built-in iSight video camera and iLife '06, the next generation of Apple's suite of digital lifestyle applications. It will replace the eMac, Apple's last CRT-based computer.
The iMac for education also includes a combo drive for burning CDs and reading DVDs, 512 MB of 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM memory expandable up to 2 GB and hard drive storage 
capacity up to 160 GB.
Passing the Torch
Apple removed the eMac from its public line up last October and will now stop manufacturing the model for the education market as well. The education market is too important for Apple to have a breach, however, said NPD Group analyst Stephen Baker.
"Without the eMac, Apple doesn't have a low-cost desktop product specifically focused on the educational market. Apple had to do something to address the needs of this important market. This iMac for education is Apple's answer," Baker told MacNewsWorld.
The eMac was also popular with members of the budget-conscious general public, who wanted the benefits of Apple computing at an affordable price. Analysts believe the introduction of the low-cost Mac mini was one reason for the eMac's public demise as those individuals opted for the former.
The Evolving iMac
The iMac design has continuously improved generation after generation. Apple points to its increased material efficiency, decreased packaging mass and volume, and decreased energy consumption -- all of which lead to a smaller environmental footprint.
The iMac for education takes into account the limited space of both the classroom and the dorm room with the entire computer built right into a two-inch thin display. Baker said the LCD screen on the new computer gives the model a stronger value proposition in the educational market.
"The iMac for education's integrated screens helps keep the price down for education. At $899 that's a good value," Baker noted. "As Apple transitions, it is making a lot of cases about compatibility to try to get a better value proposition."
The Digital Classroom
Part of that value proposition is digital media. Apple said it designed the iMac for education with today's digital classroom in mind.
Every iMac comes with iLife '06, which includes iPhoto, iMovie HD, iDVD, GarageBand and iWeb, a new application that helps consumers create and publish Web sites with photos, blogs and podcasts.
"The digital media focus is part of the value proposition that Apple tries to bring. It's not just the hardware, you also get an integrated suite of software products to use right out of the box. There is no additional cost for you to have to go out and buy software as well. That's a big plus to the educational market," Baker noted.
Extras, Extras
Every iMac also comes with the latest release of Mac OS X version 10.4.6 "Tiger" including the Safari Web browser, Mail, iCal, iChat AV, Front Row and Photo Booth, running natively on the Intel-based desktop.
The computer includes the latest in high-performance connectivity options, such as built-in Gigabit Ethernet for high-speed networking, built-in AirPort Extreme 802.11g WiFi for up to 54 Mbps fast wireless networking, a total of five USB ports (three USB 2.0) and two FireWire 400 ports.
Build-to-order options and accessories include up to 2 GB DDR2 SDRAM, 160 GB Serial ATA hard drive, iWork '06, Apple Remote and Apple USB Modem.
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